Andaman Islands are very relaxed in rules. Just some simple ettiquetes like dressing up properly and asking for permission before taking pictures should be kept in mind. Having said that, since Andamans is a protected area, one should not expect comfort equivalent to the level of one on mainland in India.

As Bengalis make most of the population of Andaman therefore,the most celebrated festival is the ‘Durga Pooja’. However,as Andaman has been home to people of all religion therefore festivals like Diwali,Christmas,Eid ,New Year etc.are also celebrated.

Due to proximity to sea, seafood rules Andaman cuisine. Crabs, lobsters, fish, shrimps, and prawns are most eaten seafood on Andamans. However, the food here is decently priced, and not as cheap as expected on an island.

International dialling is easily available from most of the major hotels and ISTD booths in the market. Though for internet access, Andamans have a reputation of very low connectivity and speed in terms of data. Normal roaming mobile signals are available, but erratic in some remote areas of the islands.

The indigenous tribes are distinguished in two groups: the Onge, Sentinelese, Jarawa and Andamanese of Negroid descent living on the Andaman Islands and the Shompen and Nicobarese of Mongoloid descent living in the Nicobar Islands. Most of the tribes are on the verge of extinction. This sad destiny will most likely hit the Andamanese tribe first since their numbers in some cases are as low as thirty. However, it is strictly prohibited, and against the law as well, to enter the tribal reserves, meet or photograph the tribals. One should refrain from disturbing the peaceful haven of these tribes. Respect the tribes and adhere to the law.

One can reach Port Blair by an aeroplane or a ship. However, reaching Port Blair by an aeroplane is easier and faster. One can board a flight to Port Blair from Chennai, Kolkata or Delhi. Flights from Chennai and Kolkata are direct flights whereas flights from Delhi travel via Chennai or Kolkata.

Foreigners require a passport with an Indian Visa to enter India as Andaman Islands are a part of India. This rule is also applicable to foreigners entering Andamans directly through sea-link by charter/private yachts. Additionally, a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is also required which can be availed on arrival to Port Blair from the Immigration counter at the airport or, embarkation of ships at the sea-port. RAP is issued for a 30 day visit to the islands and is extendable up to 15 additional days.

At the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, one would a whole host of irresistibly beautiful beaches but the Radhanagar Beach is one of the most famous and rightly so. Once awarded as the most beautiful beach in Asia, one should definitely grab the chance to visit this heavenly beach.

The entire Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar has been declared a ‘restricted area’ since 1963. Every foreigner is required to obtain a special permit from competent authority, in order to enter or stay in said restricted area. RAP for Andaman can be easily obtained at Port Blair on arrival. It is a 15 minutes procedure and is free of cost for every foreigner. It is originally issued for 30 days but can be extended for 15 additional days with proper documentation.

While travelling to Andaman one should definitely pack sunscreen as the skin gets direct exposure from the sun and one can get really bad sunburn. Other items are insect repellent, swimsuit, flip flops, digital camera etc.

One can reach Port Blair by an aeroplane or a ship. However, reaching Port Blair by an aeroplane is easier and faster. One can board a flight to Port Blair from Chennai, Kolkata or Delhi. Flights from Chennai and Kolkata are direct flights whereas flights from Delhi travel via Chennai or Kolkata.

The islands have not yet caught up with the concept of happening nightlife. Though many resorts, hotels, and pubs in Port Blair offer decent nightlife, but the environment is not as hip as in clubs of metropolitans. However, the scene is completely different during Christmas and New Year. Electrifying music, cheerful dancing and colorful disco lights in the bars greet you.

There are many important things to consider while planning your trip to the Andamans. Some of the key things are as follows:

All foreign passports must be valid of a minimum duration of 6 months from the date of entry

You must have a valid Indian visa if you are a Foreign National

If there is a stamp on your visa that reads “Not valid for restricted areas”, you will not be allowed to enter the Andamans as it is a restricted zone. Please ensure that your visa does not carry this stamp and if it does, please contact the issuing embassy.

When returning from Havelock to Port Blair, all travelers must spend the last night in Port Blair as there is no ferry from Havelock that brings you to Port Blair in time for your flight the same day.

Although on Indian Standard Time, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have an early sunrise and sunset. Sunrise here is usually between 0500hrs and 0530hrs and the sunset is at 1730hrs. It gets light very early here and dark very soon, so to make the best of the day it is advised to rise early.

Ferries from Port Blair to other islands are very regular; however there are occasions when bad weather or mechanical trouble can cause them to be cancelled.

There a lot of shopping places in Andaman. Some of the best shopping places are Sagarika Govt.Emporium, Aberdeen Bazaar, Queen Sea Shell Craft, Shopping Singapore.In all of these places one can find crafty traditional handmade items like jewellery,bangles,flower vase,earrings etc.

The ideal duration of honeymoon in Andamans varies from 4 nights to 7 nights. Depending on the number of islands one wish to cover and number of activities one wish to partake in, the ideal stay duration varies greatly.

The ideal duration of family holidays in Andamans varies from 4 nights, 5 days to 7 nights, 8 days. Depending on the number of islands one wish to cover and number of activities one wish to partake in, the ideal stay duration varies greatly.